Crossings are a way to regulate and control the traffic flow for pedestrians and vehicles alike. They are designed to ensure the safety of pedestrians while allowing drivers to move efficiently to their destination.

However, despite the importance of crossings, many drivers tend to speed through them, endangering the pedestrians and violating the traffic laws. This careless behaviour may result in serious accidents and fatalities.

Lack of Awareness

One of the primary reasons drivers often speed through crossings is the lack of awareness. Many drivers are not aware of the importance of crossings, and their role in ensuring pedestrian safety.

Hence, they do not prioritize following the rules and regulations associated with it. Additionally, some drivers may not even notice the crossing due to their preoccupation with other factors such as GPS, the radio, or mobile phones, which leads to them missing prominent road signs and traffic lights entirely.

Impatience

Another reason for speeding through crossings is impatience. Drivers are always on the lookout for ways to save time on the road, and slowing down at a crossing slows them down.

This impatience can be magnified when drivers are in a hurry, and they feel like they don’t have enough time. In such cases, drivers may be tempted to speed through the crossing, not thinking of the potential consequences of their actions.

Reckless Driving Habits

Reckless driving habits, such as aggressive driving and tailgating, are also common reasons for drivers speeding through crossings.

When drivers engage in these habits, they tend to be less aware of their surroundings and more focused on their own driving. They are also more likely to ignore traffic rules and regulations, including those related to crossings.

No Consequences

Another reason drivers speed through crossings is because often, they face no consequences. The lack of enforcement of traffic rules and regulations creates a sense of impunity, where drivers feel like they can get away with breaking the law.

This leads to drivers becoming less cautious and more reckless on the road. Additionally, when drivers witness someone else speeding through a crossing, it creates a ripple effect and encourages them to do the same.

Poor Visibility

Poor visibility is another contributing factor that leads to drivers speeding through crossings. When the visibility is low, drivers may not be able to see the crossing until they are in close proximity to it or pass it entirely.

This creates a dangerous situation for pedestrians, as they may not have sufficient time to react and avoid getting hit by a speeding vehicle.

Distractions

Finally, distractions such as mobile phones, radios, and GPS are another reason why drivers speed through crossings. These distractions can cause drivers to lose focus and miss road signs or traffic lights altogether.

Additionally, drivers may be more likely to speed through crossings if they feel distracted or under pressure due to factors such as work or personal issues.

Conclusion

Speeding through crossings is a dangerous and careless behaviour that puts both pedestrians and drivers at risk.

Lack of awareness, impatience, reckless driving habits, no consequences, poor visibility, and distractions are all reasons why drivers often speed through crossings. It is essential that drivers are educated about the importance of crossings and the risks associated with speeding through them.

Additionally, authorities must enforce traffic rules and regulations to ensure that drivers follow them, making the roads safer for everyone.